Garden Guide

Dendromecon harfordii plant Water & Sewer Utilities promotes water-wise gardens and organic gardening practices to help reduce outdoor water use while safeguarding water quality. Locally native California plants require no fertilizer and need less water and maintenance than non-native plants, helping to

restore productive soil biology
strengthen local wildlife and plant systems
keep air and groundwater clean
support healthy ecosystems

Gardening Classes

Enjoy BAWSCA videos from previous water-wise gardening classes. Each fall and spring, the Bay Area Water Supply & Conservation Agency's Landscape Classes cover practical water-wise gardening taught by landscape experts. Spring classes will start in March, 2026.

Watering

Run Sprinklers from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m.

Santa Clara Permanent Water Use Prohibitions allow sprinklers and spray irrigation only between 6 p.m. and 9 a.m.

Early morning watering (4 a.m. - 9 a.m.):

Works best with plants' natural cycles to take in water.
Minimizes evaporation (heat and wind occur later in the day).

Avoid night watering. Thought water evaporates significantly less at night, wet gardens:

Attract slugs and snails.
Increase risk of fungal rot and other plant health issues.

Tips

Mulch Now: Reduce Weeds

Mulch conserves soil moisture and protects plants.

Annuals: shredded leaves, aged wood chips
General landscape planting: aged wood chips
Unplanted areas: fresh or aged wood chips for weed suppression
Lawn: grass clippings. A mulching mower makes it easy to cycle water & nutrients!
Veggies: hay or straw (available at feed & pet shops), composted grass

3-5 inches of mulch is ideal for suppressing weeds. If you're looking to remove your lawn for a landscaping or rebate project, watch Valley Water's Sheet Mulching, Healthy Soil and Water Savings webinar.

Garden Resources